Repetition:
* Rain: The constant rain throughout the story serves as a recurring motif, representing the woman's emotional state. It's a symbol of her loneliness, isolation, and the persistent, gentle, but ultimately futile attempts to find solace. The repetition of the rain reinforces the feeling of stagnation and the woman's longing for something more.
* "She wants a cat": The woman's repeated desire for a cat acts as a tangible manifestation of her deeper yearning for something to care for, something to love and be loved by. This repetition emphasizes the lack of connection in her relationship and her desperate need for affection.
* The Hotel: The repetition of the hotel setting underscores the feeling of confinement and the inability to escape the emotional landscape of their relationship. The hotel becomes a metaphorical prison, trapping them within their own anxieties.
Contrast:
* Inside/Outside: The story contrasts the stark, sterile interior of the hotel room with the inviting rain-soaked landscape outside. This contrast reflects the disconnect between the couple's emotional distance and the world's potential for beauty and renewal. The woman longs for the outside world, but she's trapped within the cold, empty space of their relationship.
* The Woman's Desires/The Man's Disinterest: The contrast between the woman's longing for a cat, a symbol of love and affection, and the man's indifference highlights the gulf in their emotional understanding. He dismisses her desire, focusing on the practicality of the situation, while she desperately seeks solace and connection.
* The Rain/The Sun: While the rain represents the woman's sadness and longing, the sun symbolizes the possibility of hope and change. The fleeting moments of sunshine, like the appearance of the cat, offer brief glimpses of light in the otherwise gloomy atmosphere.
Overall Effect:
Through the skillful use of repetition and contrast, Hemingway paints a picture of a couple on the verge of emotional collapse. The story's quiet intensity, driven by the rhythmic repetition of the rain and the contrasting desires of its protagonists, leaves a lasting impression of the power of unspoken emotions and the fragility of relationships. The ending, with the woman returning to the hotel alone, emphasizes the enduring loneliness and the elusive nature of fulfillment.